Discover Anglesea: Beach, River and Nature

Anglesea brings together a broad sandy beach on the Anglesea River, protected swimming areas, a surf beach and the nature-rich Anglesea Heath to create a varied destination. Art, historic attractions and a monthly market add to days spent by the water and outdoors. You can therefore plan your stay around different interests: beach and river, trails through the heath or culture in town.

Beach and River: Different Ways to Spend Your Time

Anglesea’s main beach is a broad stretch of sand beside the Anglesea River. At the river mouth, Anglesea Beach has protected swimming areas. Anglesea Surf Beach suits surfers of all experience levels. For planning your day, it’s worth distinguishing between the swimming area and the surf beach: this makes it clear whether you want to focus on protected swimming areas or surfing. Anglesea offers both as distinct beach experiences.

At the mouth of the Anglesea River, the Surf Coast Walk follows the inlet for a short stretch. Cyclists can ride the Surf Coast Walk as far as Point Roadknight in Anglesea. Beside Anglesea Bridge on the Anglesea River, Anglesea Paddle Boats and Canoe Hire offers pedal boats and canoes. Availability may change, so check before planning an outing. A beach wheelchair can also be hired at Anglesea Riverbank; rental arrangements may change as well.

Nature Trails and Sweeping Views

More than 100 species of native orchids grow in the flora-rich Anglesea Heath. The six-kilometre Yan Wirring Mirr walking trail runs through the heath. This brings the heath’s plant life and a specific walking route together in a compact area. From Loveridge Lookout, sweeping views take in Anglesea, the river and Point Roadknight, extending beyond Aireys Inlet. The viewpoint covers 270 degrees, offering a wide panorama of the places and landscape features mentioned.

Guided Kangaroo Tours at Anglesea Golf Club offer another way to encounter nature: they provide the opportunity to observe more than 300 Eastern Grey Kangaroos up close in their natural habitat. Sightings depend on operating conditions.

Art, Local History and Events

Anglesea Art Space is a community-based gallery in Anglesea with a changing program of local artists. The Anglesea and District Historical Society holds general meetings with guest speakers and historical excursions; visitors are always welcome. Dates may change. The Riverbank Market takes place on a Sunday once a month at Anglesea Riverbank. Its dates may also vary.

The playground at Coogoorah Park features a wooden ship inspired by the wreck of the Inverlochy. The ship sank off the coast in 1902. This distinctive playground feature recalls a specific chapter in the area’s history.

Find Hotels to Suit Your Travel Interests

When looking for a hotel in Anglesea, you can start with the focus you want for your trip: beach and river, nature trails, or art and history. If you’re travelling with people who have different interests, these themes can help you plan days with varied activities.

Discover more destinations: Batesford, Portarlington, Queenscliff, Point Lonsdale, Ocean Grove, Torquay.

Return to the main travel overview: Geelong.